The Great Dictator by Charlie Chaplin

This blog is a part of thinking activity of frame study of modern times to understanding the Zeitgeist of the 20th Century: From Modern Times to the Era of Great Dictators.

- Assigned by Dilip Barad sir. 

The Great Dictator :-

Introduction of the movie :-

The Great Dictator is a 1940 American anti-war political satire black comedy film written, directed, produced, scored by, and starring British comedian Charlie Chaplin, following the tradition of many of his other films. Having been the only Hollywood filmmaker to continue to make silent films well into the period of sound films, Chaplin made this his first true sound film.

          The Great Dictator

Here you find explanation of frames. 

1. World War :-

(Wooden structure and Big weapons)

The frame depicts a war scene with wooden structures leading to a cave, symbolizing refuge. The line represents safety amid war chaos. A large war weapon signifies destructive power, power imbalance, and escalated conflict. It also represents technological advancements and the threat they pose.

The frame shows debris flying after a blast, symbolizing the immediate impact, chaos, and destruction of violence and conflict. It represents the devastating consequences on both the environment and people's lives.

People giving commands :-

People giving commands instead of working independently symbolizes a power imbalance, indicating hierarchical structures or authoritative systems. It suggests control by authority figures and a lack of autonomy or equality among individuals.

2. Mobocracy and Dictatorial Democracy:

The frame, filled with long lines of soldiers, symbolizes the mass mobilization, unity, and collective strength of an army. It highlights the scale of manpower in warfare, emphasizing solidarity, discipline, and the unified effort of soldiers working together toward a common goal or mission.

3. Dictatorship :-

The dictator addressing the people symbolizes authoritative control, manipulation, and concentration of power. It reflects a lack of freedom and suppression of dissent. A falling dictator from a staircase, while humorous, signifies the downfall of authoritarian power, indicating a shift in the balance of power and potential for change or liberation from oppressive rule.

Photos With children :-

The frame depicts a dictator portraying innocence, a common tactic in history. Leaders, including dictators, often use photos with children to show concern for their welfare. This tradition persists in the 21st century, highlighting how leaders convey affinity with children across generations.

A plane turned upside down can symbolize chaos, disaster, or the loss of control. It might represent a moment of crisis, upheaval, or a dramatic shift from stability to turmoil.

Hynkel playing with the world symbolizes authoritarian leaders' manipulative and domineering nature. It highlights the dangerous impact of dictatorial ideologies on a global scale, showcasing how leaders use power to control events and people for personal agendas, often at the expense of others' freedoms and well-being.

Both sculptures are positioned in a salute. These ancient sculptures have been altered by leaders to align with their party ideologies and symbols.

Hynkel with a watch symbolizes his control over time and events, highlighting his authority to dictate and manipulate circumstances. It suggests his mastery and ability to shape outcomes according to his will, emphasizing dominance and command over the progression and timing of events within his sphere of influence.

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